Unattended smart property showing

ABSTRACT

Rental property management technology, in which reservation data is accessed on a rental property management server, and a request from a mobile device for an upcoming reservation at a property is detected. In response to detecting the request, the rental property management server confirms the upcoming reservation based on the accessed reservation data. In response to confirming the upcoming reservation, the reservation management server generates a unique access code. The rental property management server transmits the unique access code to the mobile device and to a monitoring system on the property. The rental property management server also transmits data to the monitoring system indicating that the unique access code grants access to the property.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/638,570, filed Jun. 20, 2017, now allowed, which claims the benefitof U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/356,684, filed Jun. 30, 2016. Thecomplete disclosures of all of the above patent applications are herebyincorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure application relates generally to rental propertymanagement technology.

BACKGROUND

When a property is for sale or is available for rent, prospectiveresidents may need to wait for an open house to see the inside of thehome. Alternatively, prospective residents may need to contact arealtor, owner, or property manager that has access to a physical key tounlock the property and that person may need to go with the prospectiveresidents to the property to unlock the property.

SUMMARY

Techniques are described for rental property management technology. Forexample, techniques are described for allowing tenants or prospectivebuyers or renters to tour properties without the presence of an owner,property manager, or real estate agent.

Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, amethod or process implemented at least partially in hardware, or acomputer-readable storage medium encoded with executable instructionsthat, when executed by a processor, perform operations.

The details of one or more implementations are set forth in theaccompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will beapparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of an example of a system that enablesunattended property showing.

FIGS. 2-3 are flow charts of example processes that enable unattendedproperty showing.

FIGS. 4-5 illustrate example interfaces for unattended property showing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Techniques are described for allowing tenants to tour properties withoutthe presence of an owner, real estate agent, or property manager. Asystem uses tenant reservation data to automatically show rentalproperties to prospective tenants, including providing access codes andmonitoring the rental properties in accordance with tenant reservationsand check-ins/check-outs.

Once a prospective tenant, or user of the system, has toured theproperty, he can provide feedback to the system regarding hisexperience. For example, the user can provide feedback about whataspects of the current property he liked and what aspects of the currentproperty he did not like. This feedback allows the owner, real estateagent, or property manager to maintain a relationship with theprospective tenant, and if the current property he is viewing does notfit his needs, the owner, real estate agent, or property manager canhelp the prospective tenant find a property that does.

The renting process is streamlined by providing a system through which aprospective tenant can reserve showing times, access properties, andindicate interest. Whereas prospective tenants may have previously beenlimited to times during which leasing agents, property managers, etc.were available, they can now view properties at times that fit theirschedules. Allowing prospective tenants to view properties unattendedminimizes the amount of time a property is vacant, and reduces traveland labor costs for property management companies with properties thatare geographically distant. In some examples, unattended viewing mayinclude allowing tenants to view properties unaccompanied by an owner orproperty manager. For example, if a property management company focuseson long term renters and has a portfolio of single family homes that areeach at least 20 twenty miles apart from each other or the propertymanagement company site, the property management company can increasethe frequency of showings without incurring additional travel costs orlosing time between showings by travelling between the differentproperties.

Furthermore, multiple interested parties can attend showingssimultaneously while receiving a personalized experience, and showingtimes may overlap without interrupting the viewing experience of aprospective tenant already inside the property. For example, if aprospective tenant, John, is interested in viewing a property from 1:30p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and a second prospective tenant, Sally, is interestedin viewing the same property from 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., the system mayenable both John and Sally to view the property during their desiredviewing times. Additionally, the system may provide a guided tour orpersonalized information for John and for Sally.

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of an example of a property managementsystem 100 associated with a property 101. While the below disclosure iswritten in the context of showing a rental property it could also beused for showing a property for sale. In some examples, the system canbe used to provide access codes to prospective tenants who wish to tourthe property. The system 100 may include a monitor control unit 110,sensors 122, appliances 124, cameras 126, an electronic lock 128, arental property management server 130 that manages rental reservations,and an authorized user device 140. The server 130 may maintain data thatdefines which prospective tenants, owners, or property managers areassociated with which properties (or the electronic locks at theproperties) and maintain permission data that sets which users areallowed to view data and perform control operations for electronic locksand monitoring and energy consuming devices.

Although FIG. 1 illustrates one property for brevity, the server 120 maymanage electronic locks and energy consuming devices for many moreproperties and/or structures. For example, the system 100 may includeseveral monitoring systems each associated with a respective multiple,different rental properties and the server 120 may manage access to allthe multiple, different rental properties. The multiple, differentproperties may be operated by different entities (e.g., owned bydifferent entities) with single entities operating groups of properties.For example, each rental property may be owned by a different person,and a single property management company may be managing all of therental properties using the system. The authorized user 104 may be thesame user as the individual near the front door 102. For example, theindividual near the front door 102 may be authorized to gain access tothe property 101 and may be entering an access code to the electroniclock 128.

The operations performed by the system 100 may limit labor and travelexpenses by automating the process of granting access to prospectivetenants in remotely located rental properties. In some examples, theserver 130 receives data related to reservations for the rentalproperties managed by the server 130. The server 130 may provide a webinterface that enables users (e.g., travel agents, travelers, propertymanagement personnel, etc.) to manage reservations for the rentalproperties (e.g., make reservations, cancel reservations, changereservations, etc.). In these implementations, the server 130 furtherreceives data related to settings for monitoring systems, devices, andenergy management provided by owners and/or property managers of therental properties managed by the server 130.

The server 130 may provide a web interface that enables each ownerand/or property manager to define operational settings for their rentalproperties (e.g., energy management profiles, thermostat profiles,lighting management profiles, rules related to interior door access byrenters for rented and unrented states of the property, etc.). In someexamples, the owner or property manager may define and update settingsfor appliances, devices, and systems of the property 101. In someexamples, a tenant or a prospective tenant may make changes to settingsand profiles for appliances, devices, and systems of the property 101.

In general, the system 100 can be configured to respond to an electroniclock action by an individual 102 based on monitoring an detectableregion 128 a of the property 101 and determining an appropriate actionto be performed in response based on one or more actions specified by alock action repository 132. The lock action repository 132 may includeactions available in response to inputs to the electronic lock 128. Forexample, in response to the electronic lock 128 detecting an input of anincorrect access code, the lock action repository 132 may transmit acontrol signal to the monitor control unit 110 to active an alarm. Thelock action repository 132 may receive data from the electronic lock128. In some examples, the lock action repository 132 may communicatewith various systems, such as the monitor control unit 110, the server130, etc. In the example depicted in FIG. 1 , the electronic lock 128initially detects an input to the electronic lock 128 by the individual102. In response to detecting user input, the electronic lock 128monitors the detectable region 128 a, near the front door of theproperty 101, for motion by the individual 102. The electronic lock 128then transmits a signal including lock information (e.g., timestamp ofinput to the electronic lock, detected motion within the detectableregion 128 a, captured footage of the individual 102, etc.) to themonitor control unit 110. In response, the monitor control unit 110gathers additional information for the property 101 from the sensors122, the appliances 124, and the cameras 126, and then transmits thegathered data to the rental property management server 130.

After receiving the gathered data, the rental property management server130 accesses the lock action repository 132 to determine an appropriateaction to be performed based on the information included within thegathered data. After determining an appropriate action to be performed,the rental property management server 130 transmits instructions toperform the action to be performed to the monitor control unit 110,which then transmits corresponding signals to one or more of the sensors122, the appliances 124, the cameras 126, or the electronic lock 128. Insome instances, the action to be performed may include transmitting anelectronic lock alert notification indicating the detected input to theelectronic lock and other associated information to the user device 140of the authorized user 104. More particular descriptions related to thecomponents of the system 100 are provided below.

The server 130 may maintain a database that stores integratedreservation data and property usage data (e.g., lock/lock usage data,thermostat usage data, and pool heater usage data). In some examples,the server 130 or the monitor control unit 110 maintains the propertyusage data. The server 130 may analyze the integrated reservation dataand property usage data to provide alerts/reports based on bothreservation data and property usage data and also to verify that theproperty 101 is being properly managed. For example, the server 130 maymonitor sensors on interior doors to which a renter does not have accessto issue an alert to a property manager or owner of the property 101.The server 130 also enables owners or property managers of theproperties to edit operational settings at the properties. In someexamples, the server 130 manages operational settings at the propertiesin an automated manner based on the reservation data and the propertyusage data stored in the server 130.

The server 130 may communicate with the monitor control unit 110 tocontrol operations of devices and systems located on the property 101.For example, when allowing users to view the property 101 unattended,systems such as the HVAC system may be locked. The server 130 maycontrol the HVAC system and/or deny input from a thermostat located onthe property 101. For example, the owner or property manager of theproperty 101 may set controls of the HVAC system such that the settingscannot be changed during unattended viewing times. In some examples, thevisitors or prospective tenants may not interact with the devices andsystems of the property 101. For example, the owner of the property mayset operational settings for the devices and systems of the property 101such that the devices and systems do not respond to physical inputs,e.g., a visitor or prospective tenant may press buttons or flip switchesand no action will be taken. In some examples, prospective tenants mayinteract with physical controls in the property 101. For example,prospective tenants may interact with light switches, open cabinets anddoors, turn fans on and off, etc.

In some examples, the owner or property manager may set controls ofdevices or systems such that they do not accept input when occupancy isdetected. The system 100 may enable the owner or property manager to setcontrols of devices or systems by sending control signals through themonitor control unit 110. For example, the system 100 may send controlsignals to a security system to enable it through the monitor controlunit 110. In some examples, the system 100 may enable the owner orproperty manager to set controls of devices or systems by directlycontrolling the devices or systems. For example, the system 100 maycommunicate directly with an electronic lock to grant a prospectivetenant access to a property.

In some examples, the systems and devices may be locked when it isdetected that a prospective tenant is in the home, but settings may beadjusted remotely. In some examples, settings may be adjusted remotelyat any time, and may not be adjusted manually. For example, if the owneror property management company is managing the property 101 remotely,they may not allow control of systems or devices located on the property101 by anyone.

The system 100 also includes electronic locks located at each of theproperties. As shown, the property 101 includes an electronic lock 128located at an exterior door of the property 101 and a monitor controlunit 110 located within the property 101. The electronic lock 128 mayinclude a user input device that receives user input of a passcode and amechanical lock that unlocks and locks a physical door of an entrance tothe property 101. The electronic lock 128 also may include acommunication module that performs two-way communication over a wired orshort-range wireless communication protocol and a processor thatcontrols the lock to allow access to the property based on entry of aproper passcode through the user input device.

In some examples, the electronic locks described throughout thisdisclosure may have firmware and processing capabilities that allow theserver 130 to add, delete, and change codes stored at the electroniclocks. The electronic lock 128 engages in two-way communications withthe monitor control unit 110 over the short-range wireless communicationprotocol. In this example, the monitor control unit 110 includescommunication components that allow the monitor control unit 110 toperform two-way communication with the lock 128 over the short-rangewireless communication protocol and to perform two-way communicationwith the server 130 over a long-range communication protocol (e.g., along-range wired or wireless communication protocol). The monitoringsystem 110 may serve as an intermediary between the server 130 and thelock 128 to enable the server 130 to remotely program and manage thelock 128 and also to receive reports when events (e.g., entry of acorrect passcode, entry of an incorrect passcode, entry of a check-in orcheckout code, etc.) occur at the lock 128.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 performs relatively fewprocessing operations and serves to primarily exchange communicationsbetween the lock 128 and the server 130. In these examples, the lock 128includes an electronic storage device that stores passcodes that arevalid to open the lock 128 and the processor of the lock 128 performsthe decision making processing to determine whether or not a properpasscode has been entered. When the server 130 remotely managespasscodes (e.g., adds passcodes, deletes passcodes, changes passcodes,etc.) for the lock 128, the monitor control unit 110 relays commandsfrom the server 130 to the lock 128 and the processor of the lock 128interprets the commands and performs adjustments to the electronicstorage device needed to modify the valid passcodes as instructed. Forreporting lock events, the lock 128 sends reports of events to themonitor control unit 110 and the monitor control unit 110 relays thereports to the server 130. The server 130 stores the reports and mayperform reporting operations for the entity operating the property 101such that the entity (e.g., owner) may be alerted to events at the lock128 and may view a history of events at the lock 128. The server 130also may perform energy management operations for the property 101 basedon reports from the lock 128.

In other examples, the lock 128 performs relatively few processingoperations and the monitor control unit 110 performs control processingfor the lock 128. In these examples, the monitor control unit 110includes an electronic storage device that stores passcodes that arevalid to open the lock 128 and also includes a processor that performsthe decision making processing to determine whether or not a properpasscode has been entered. For instance, when a user inputs a passcodeat the lock 128, the lock 128 merely forwards the entered passcode tothe monitor control unit 110 and the monitor control unit 110 determineswhether the passcode is valid. Based on the determination, the monitorcontrol unit 110 sends a command back to the lock 128 to either deny theentered passcode or allow access to the property 101. When the server130 remotely manages passcodes (e.g., adds passcodes, deletes passcodes,changes passcodes, etc.) for the lock 128, the monitor control unit 110interprets the commands and performs adjustments to the electronicstorage device needed to modify the valid passcodes as instructed. Thelock 128 does not need to receive any communication related to themanagement of passcodes since the monitor control unit 110 stores thevalid passcodes. For reporting lock events, the monitor control unit 110sends reports of events to the server 130. The server 130 stores thereports and may perform reporting operations for the entity operatingthe property 101 such that the entity (e.g., owner) may be alerted toevents at the lock 128 and may view a history of events at the lock 128.In some examples, the server 130 also may perform energy managementoperations or other operations of monitoring or energy consuming devicesfor the property 101 based on reports from the monitor control unit 110.

The monitor control unit 110 includes a controller and a network module.The controller is configured to control a monitoring system (e.g., ahome alarm or security system) that includes the monitor control unit110. In some examples, the controller may include a processor or othercontrol circuitry configured to execute instructions of a program thatcontrols operation of an alarm system. In these examples, the controllermay be configured to receive input from sensors, detectors, or otherdevices included in the alarm system and control operations of devicesincluded in the alarm system or other household devices (e.g., athermostat, an appliance, lights, etc.). For example, the controller maybe configured to control operation of the network module included in themonitor control unit 110.

The network module is a communication device configured to exchangecommunications over the network 105. The network module may be awireless communication module configured to exchange wirelesscommunications over the network 105. For example, the network module maybe a wireless communication device configured to exchange communicationsover a wireless data channel and a wireless voice channel. In thisexample, the network module may transmit alarm data over a wireless datachannel and establish a two-way voice communication session over awireless voice channel. The wireless communication device may includeone or more of a LTE module, a GSM module, a radio modem, cellulartransmission module, or any type of module configured to exchangecommunications in one of the following formats: LTE, GSM or GPRS, CDMA,EDGE or EGPRS, EV-DO or EVDO, UMTS, or IP.

The network module may also be a wired communication module configuredto exchange communications over the network 105 using a wiredconnection. For instance, the network module may be a modem, a networkinterface card, or another type of network interface device. The networkmodule may be an Ethernet network card configured to enable the monitorcontrol unit 110 to communicate over a local area network and/or theInternet. The network module also may be a voice-band modem configuredto enable the alarm panel to communicate over the telephone lines ofPlain Old Telephone Systems (POTS).

The network 105 is configured to enable exchange of electroniccommunications between devices connected to the network 105. Forexample, the network 105 may be configured to enable exchange ofelectronic communications between the monitor control unit 110, thesensors 122, the appliances 124, the cameras 126, the electronic lock128 and the rental property management server 130. The network 105 mayinclude, for example, one or more of the Internet, Wide Area Networks(WANs), Local Area Networks (LANs), analog or digital wired and wirelesstelephone networks (e.g., a public switched telephone network (PSTN),Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), a cellular network, andDigital Subscriber Line (DSL)), radio, television, cable, satellite, orany other delivery or tunneling mechanism for carrying data. The network105 may include multiple networks or subnetworks, each of which mayinclude, for example, a wired or wireless data pathway. The network 105may also include a circuit-switched network, a packet-switched datanetwork, or any other network able to carry electronic communications(e.g., data or voice communications). For example, the network 105 mayinclude networks based on the Internet protocol (IP), asynchronoustransfer mode (ATM), the PSTN, packet-switched networks based on IP,X.25, or Frame Relay, or other comparable technologies and may supportvoice using, for example, VoIP, or other comparable protocols used forvoice communications. The network 105 may include one or more networksthat include wireless data channels and wireless voice channels. Thenetwork 105 may be a wireless network, a broadband network, or acombination of networks including a wireless network and a broadbandnetwork.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 may include data captureand recording devices. In these examples, the monitor control unit 110may include one or more cameras 126, one or more motion sensors, one ormore microphones, one or more biometric data collection tools, one ormore temperature sensors, one or more humidity sensors, one or more airflow sensors, and/or any other types of sensors that may be useful incapturing monitoring data related to the property 101 and users in theproperty.

The property 101 may include various monitoring devices. For example,the property 101 may include cameras, sensors, and other devices thatprovide monitoring data associated with devices and areas of theproperty 101. Cameras located on the property 101 may provide video,still images, or other monitoring data, and may provide data via a livefeed, transmit data to be stored in a remote location, store datalocally for review at a later time, etc. Sensors located on the property101 may include motion sensors, heat sensors, pressure sensors,resistive sensors, etc. Sensors may communicate with the monitor controlunit 110 and transmit monitoring data for processing to the monitorcontrol unit 110. In some examples, sensors located on the property 101may store collected data locally or transmit monitoring data to bestored in a remote location.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 includescomputer-readable storage media that store passcodes that are valid toopen the lock 128. The lock 128 may transmit input received at a keypador other user input device to the monitor control unit 110. The monitorcontrol unit 110 may determine whether a proper passcode has beenentered or the processor of the lock 128 performs the decision makingprocessing to determine whether or not a proper passcode has beenentered. When the server 130 remotely manages passcodes (e.g., addspasscodes, deletes passcodes, changes passcodes, etc.) for the lock 128,the monitor control unit 110 relays commands from the server 130 to thelock 128 and the processor of the lock 128 interprets the commands andperforms adjustments to the electronic storage device needed to modifythe valid passcodes as instructed. For reporting lock events, the lock128 sends reports of events to the monitor control unit 110 and themonitor control unit 110 relays the reports to the server 130. Theserver 130 stores the reports and may perform reporting operations forthe entity operating the property 101 such that the entity (e.g., owner)may be alerted to events at the lock 128 and may view a history ofevents at the lock 128. The server 130 also may perform energymanagement operations for the property 101 based on reports from thelock 128.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 performs relatively fewprocessing operations and serves to primarily exchange communicationsbetween the lock 128 and the server 130. In these examples, the lock 128includes an electronic storage device that stores passcodes that arevalid to open the lock 128 and the processor of the lock 128 performsthe decision making processing to determine whether or not a properpasscode has been entered. When the server 130 remotely managespasscodes (e.g., adds passcodes, deletes passcodes, changes passcodes,etc.) for the lock 128, the monitor control unit 110 relays commandsfrom the server 130 to the lock 128 and the processor of the lock 128interprets the commands and performs adjustments to the electronicstorage device needed to modify the valid passcodes as instructed. Forreporting lock events, the lock 128 sends reports of events to themonitor control unit 110 and the monitor control unit 110 relays thereports to the server 130. The server 130 stores the reports and mayperform reporting operations for the entity operating the property 101such that the entity (e.g., owner) may be alerted to events at the lock128 and may view a history of events at the lock 128. The server 130also may perform energy management operations for the property 101 basedon reports from the lock 128.

The monitor control unit 110 also may include a communication modulethat enables the monitor control unit 110 to communicate other devicesof the system 100. The communication module may be a wirelesscommunication module that allows the monitor control unit 110 tocommunicate wirelessly. For instance, the communication module may be aWi-Fi module that enables the monitor control unit 110 to communicateover a local wireless network at the property 101. The communicationmodule further may be a 900 MHz wireless communication module thatenables the monitor control unit 110 to communicate directly with amonitor control unit. Other types of short-range wireless communicationprotocols, such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, Zwave, ZigBee, etc., may beused to allow the monitor control unit 110 to communicate with otherdevices in the property 101.

The monitor control unit 110 further may include processor and storagecapabilities. The monitor control unit 110 may include any suitableprocessing devices that enable the monitor control unit 110 to operateapplications and perform the actions described throughout thisdisclosure. In addition, the monitor control unit 110 may include solidstate electronic storage that enables the monitor control unit 110 tostore applications, configuration data, collected sensor data, and/orany other type of information available to the monitor control unit 110.

The monitor control unit 110 may exchange communications with thesensors 122, the appliances 124, the cameras 126, the electronic lock128, and the rental property management server 130 using multiplecommunication links. The multiple communication links may be a wired orwireless data pathway configured to transmit signals from sensors 122,the appliances 124, the cameras 126, the electronic lock 128, and therental property management server 130 to the controller. The sensors122, the appliances 124, the cameras 126, the electronic lock 128, andthe rental property management server 130 may continuously transmitsensed values to the controller, periodically transmit sensed values tothe monitor control unit 110, or transmit sensed values to the monitorcontrol unit 110 in response to a change in a sensed value.

The multiple communication links may include a local network. Thesensors 122, the appliances 124, the cameras 126, the electronic lock128, and the rental property management server 130 and the monitorcontrol unit 110 may exchange data and commands over the local network.The local network may include 802.11 “Wi-Fi” wireless Ethernet (e.g.,using low-power Wi-Fi chipsets), Z-Wave, Zigbee, Bluetooth, “Homeplug”or other “Powerline” networks that operate over AC wiring, and aCategory 5 (CATS) or Category 6 (CAT6) wired Ethernet network. The localnetwork may be a mesh network constructed based on the devices connectedto the mesh network.

In some implementations, the monitor control unit 110 may additionallybe used to perform routine surveillance operations on a property. Forinstance, the monitor control unit 110 may be assigned to one or moreparticular properties within a geographic location and may routinelycollect surveillance footage during specified time periods (e.g., afterdark), which may then be transmitted to the rental property managementserver 130 for transmitting back to each particular property owner. Insuch implementations, the property owner may receive the surveillancefootage over the network 105 as a part of a service provided by asecurity provider that operates the rental property management server130. For example, transmissions of the surveillance footage collected bythe monitor control unit 110 may be part of a premium security servicepackage provided by a security provider in addition to the routine droneemergency response service.

In some implementations, the monitor control unit 110 may monitor theoperation of the electronic devices of the system 100 such as sensors122, the appliances 124, the cameras 126, the electronic lock 128, andthe rental property management server 130. For instance, the monitorcontrol unit 110 may enable or disable the devices of the system 100based on a set of rules associated with energy consumption,user-specified settings, and/or other information associated with theconditions near or within the property 101 where the system 100 islocated. In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 may be used as areplacement to a traditional security panel (or monitor control unit)that is used to monitor and control the operations of the system 100. Inother examples, the monitor control unit 110 may coordinate monitoringoperations with a separate security panel of the system 100. In suchexamples, the monitor control unit 110 may monitor particular activitiesof the devices of the system 100 that are not monitored by the securitypanel, or monitor the operation of particular devices that are notmonitoring by the security panel.

In some examples, a monitoring system may not be used. In theseexamples, the locks may communicate directly with the server 130 over along-range communication protocol.

In controlling operations of the property 101, the server 130 mayconsider reservation data for the rental property and/or events detectedby an electronic lock, monitoring system devices, sensors, etc. at therental property. For instance, the server 130 may define the prospectivetenant arrival time used in determining when to begin arrivalpreparation as the earliest possible check-in time allowed with thereservation or the time when the prospective tenant reaches the rentalproperty and enters a check-in code to the electronic lock at theproperty. In some implementations, the server 130 tracks actual check-intimes detected by the lock at the property over time (e.g., many rentalperiods) and determines an estimated arrival time based on the trackedcheck-in times. In these implementations, the server 130 may compute anaverage or median actual check-in time at the rental property based onthe tracked check-in times and use the computed average or median actualcheck-in time as the estimated arrival time.

In addition, the server 130 may use a combination of the reservationdata and the electronic lock data in managing energy usage at the rentalproperty. For example, the server 130 may begin arrival preparationbased on the earliest possible check-in time allowed with thereservation and then monitor for an event from the electronic lock thatsignifies that the prospective tenant has arrived at the property. Theserver 130 may use monitoring data, such as camera input (still imagesor video), motion sensors, etc. to determine whether the prospectivetenant has arrived at the property. In this example, the server 130 maymaintain operational settings for an occupied rental property based onthe server 130 detecting the event from the electronic lock thatsignifies that the prospective tenant has arrived at the property withina threshold period of time after the earliest possible check-in timeallowed with the reservation. However, based on the server 130determining that the event from the electronic lock that signifies thatthe prospective tenant has arrived at the property has not been detectedwithin the threshold period of time, the server 130 may initiateconservation or un-occupancy operations (e.g., at least temporarilystopping heating or cooling of the rental property, turning off lights,etc.) and continue monitoring for an event from the electronic lock ormonitoring system devices that signifies that the prospective tenant hasarrived at the property. The server 130 also may take action to attemptto determine when the prospective tenant expects to arrive at the rentalproperty (e.g., sending the prospective tenant an electronic messagethat asks the prospective tenant to provide an estimated arrival time).

In some implementations, the server 130 also sets a “departure” profile.In these implementations, the server 130 may use the prospective tenantreservation data (e.g., check out date/time) and may send a signal tothe monitoring system that includes settings for the departure of theprospective tenant. The monitoring system at the property then may sendthe departure settings to various devices and systems located in therental property 101. The departure operations and timing of when thedeparture temperature is used may be set by the rental managementcompany and/or the owner of the rental property in a manner similar tothat described above for the arrival temperature.

The server 130 may use reservation data and/or electronic lock events tocontrol departure timing similar to how the server 130 uses reservationdata and/or electronic lock events to control arrival timing. Forinstance, the server 130 may monitor for a departure code that theprospective tenant is asked to enter at the lock when checking out. Insome examples, the departure code may operate the electronic lock 128.In some examples, the departure code does not operate the electroniclock 128, but is used to report the check-out to the server 130, whichin turn is able to perform energy management operations defined for whenthe rental property is not occupied by a prospective tenant. To theextent the server 130 does not detect the departure code by the latestcheck-out time allowed with the reservation, the server 130 may, at thattime, initiate operations defined for when the rental property is notoccupied by a prospective tenant or may provide reminder to theprospective tenant that their reserved time has elapsed, e.g., flash thelights in the property, provide an announcement of speakers in theproperty that the reserved time has elapsed, etc.

The server 130 may initiate operations defined for when the property isnot occupied if no activity or motion is detected for a predeterminedamount of time, even if no departure is detected. For example, a visitormay depart without fully closing the front door, through the back door,without entering a departure code, etc. In such examples, the server 130may use monitoring data to determine that all visitors have departed andinitiate operations for an unoccupied property.

In some examples, the server 130 may determine that the property 101 isunoccupied through data such as a visitor's geographical location, whichdevices are connected to a network of the property 101, etc. Forexample, if no devices are connected to the network local to theproperty 101 and all visitors' geographical locations are determined tobe locations other than the property 101, the server 130 may determinethat the property 101 is unoccupied, and enter an unoccupied operationmode.

In some examples, the server 130 stores reservation information (e.g.,periods in which properties are rented, arrival date-time, departuredate-time, etc.) for each property being managed by the server 130. At aparticular number of hours prior to the prospective tenant arrival, theserver 130 may send a signal via a network (e.g., the Internet) to themonitor control unit 110 in the rental property 101. The signal mayinclude a prospective tenant arrival temperature setting, a lightingsystem profile, a personalized greeting, etc., and the monitor controlunit 110 may then send the prospective tenant arrival settings to theappropriate devices (e.g., a thermostat, lights, a speaker system, etc.)located in the rental property 101.

The particular number of hours prior to the prospective tenant arrivalat which arrival preparation begins and the prospective tenant arrivalsettings may be set by the owner of the property or the rentalmanagement company that operates the server 130. The rental managementcompany may define limits in which the owner of the property can choosethe desired number of hours and the prospective tenant arrival settingsto prevent owners from choosing unreasonable settings that are likely toresult in prospective tenant dissatisfaction.

The prospective tenant also may set the particular number of hours priorto the prospective tenant arrival at which arrival preparation beginsand adjust the prospective tenant arrival settings. The owner of theproperty and/or the rental management company may define limits in whichthe prospective tenant can choose the desired number of hours and theprospective tenant arrival settings to prevent prospective tenants fromchoosing unreasonable settings that are likely to result in high energyconsumption.

A user of a mobile device 140 may be interested in the property 101. Theuser may make a reservation to see the property 101 through a mobileapplication on the mobile device 140 (e.g., an application forinteracting with the server 130). The user may make a reservation to seethe property 101 through a web interface (e.g., a property managementcompany's website). In some examples, a mobile application on the mobiledevice 140 may allow the user to browse properties on one or moreproperty management company websites. For example, the mobileapplication may present the user with a list of properties fromdifferent property management companies, and redirect the user to theproperty management company's web site once the user selects a propertyto view. The mobile application may allow a user to filter results bylocation, price, availability, showing times, management company, etc.

In this example, the user may decide that they are interested in viewingthe property 101. The user may select the property 101 using the mobileapplication and indicate their interest using a user interface elementprovided in the mobile application (e.g., a “Reserve a Showing” button).The mobile application may display a list of times during which theproperty 101 is available for viewing. For example, the property 101 maystill have a tenant who wishes to be home when prospective tenants viewthe property 101; the application may offer only times during which theyare home to prospective tenants. In some examples, the owner or propertymanager may override tenant-specified viewing times. In some examples,the owner or property manager may set the viewing times without inputfrom the current tenant. The available viewing times can include thepresent—for example, a prospective tenant may be in the neighborhood andmay wish to view the property at that very moment.

The user can select a time or range of times to view the property. Forexample, viewings may be a fixed amount of time (e.g., thirty minutes,one hour, two hours, etc.). In some examples, the user can select arange of times, (e.g., from 2 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.). The user may be ableto select a range of times in various increments (e.g., fifteen minutes,thirty minutes, forty-five minutes, etc.). In some examples, the user islimited to increments or time ranges set by the owner or propertymanager of the property. For example, the owner may impose a time limitof one and a half hours for each prospective tenant to view theproperty. In some examples, the property manager may override theowner's limits if the limits would negatively impact a prospectivetenant's experience. In other examples, the owner may override theproperty manager's limits if the owner is not comfortable with them.

Once the user has selected a property and a reservation time, the usermay be asked to register. For security and authentication purposes, theuser may be asked to answer a variety of questions and provide variousinformation. The user may be asked to provide their full name, emailaddress or phone number, and notification preferences. For example, theproperty management company may need to contact the user to receivefeedback, inform them that they have left something behind, or to askthem to return an item they removed from the property.

The user may be asked to answer standard background questions, such aswhether they have ever been convicted of a felony or filed forbankruptcy. In some examples, the user may be asked to provide creditinformation or authorize a credit check. In some examples, the user maybe asked to provide a valid credit card number and to authorize a smallcharge to their card. This fee may act as a deterrent to users who arenot serious about viewing properties for rental, or who may havemalicious intentions (e.g., stealing from the property, damaging theproperty, etc.). The fee may be used as a deposit that is returned uponinspection of the property after the user leaves. In some examples, thefee is small and is kept as a showing charge.

The user may be asked to provide a current photo for verificationpurposes. For example, the owner or property management company maymanually verify that the person is who they claim to be by checking thephoto against public records, or by checking monitoring data, such asvideo or still images, from the property 101 upon the user's arrival.The user may be able to take a photo of themselves when they request totour a property. For example, the user may be able to take a photo usingtheir mobile device 140. The user may then transmit the photo to theserver 130. The owner or property management company may then verifythat the current photo matches public records or a photo sent to theserver 130 from the monitor control unit 110. In some examples, thesystem 100 may automatically compare photos using facial recognitiontechnology. Photo verification may be provided in various ways, such asover the network 105, through postal mail, etc. If the user does notmatch the photo they provided, they may be denied access to the property101.

Once a user has been authenticated and successfully booked a showingtime for the property, the server 130 may generate an access code orpersonal identification number (PIN) unique to the user. The access codeis valid throughout the duration of the user's reservation, and is inputto the electronic lock 128 to grant the user access to the property 101.In some examples, the access code is not valid for any other electroniclocks or devices located on the property 101, or to any electronic locksor devices outside of the property 101. In other examples, the accesscode may be unique to the user, and may be used by the user to accessmultiple properties. For example, the user may schedule several showingsfor the same day. The server 130 may generate one access code for theuser and communicate the code to each of the properties the user isscheduled to view. In some examples, the electronic locks at eachproperty may maintain the times during which the codes are active. Inother examples, the server 130 may manage the times during which theaccess codes are active for each property.

A user may then input their unique access code to the electronic lock128 to gain access to the property 101. The electronic lock 128 maytransmit data indicating that it has received an input. The server 130may receive the access code data to record when a particular user hasarrived at the property 101. In some examples, the server 130 mayperform an action based on the access code data. For example, the server130 may determine that a user, John, has entered his access code, andhas entered the property 101. The server 130 may operate a speakersystem located on the property 101 to greet John (e.g., saying “Welcometo your new home, John! Feel free to look around!”). In some examples,multiple prospective tenants may be inside the property 101, and theserver 130 may provide a personalized greeting for each visitor. In someexamples, the server 130 may notify the owner or property manager of theproperty 101 that a particular visitor has arrived. The owner orproperty manager may then greet the visitor personally (e.g., through aspeaker system, through a phone call, through an interactive devicewithin the property 101).

The server 130 may perform operations based on the access code dataand/or the monitoring data. In some examples, the operations may includea personalized guided tour. For example, an interactive device such as atablet or computer may be placed in the property 101. Upon detectingthat a visitor has entered the property 101, the server 130 may initiatea greeting through the interactive device. In some examples, the server130 may operate the interactive device to guide a visitor through keyareas of the property 101. The interactive device may grant the visitoraccess to specific areas of the property 101. In some examples, thevisitor may not access certain areas of the property 101 without theinteractive device. For example, the visitor may be denied access to asecond floor or a basement or a door leading to a different area of theproperty 101 unless they are holding the interactive device. Theinteractive device may communicate with doors and sensors throughshort-ranged wireless communication (RFID, NFC, etc.).

The server 130 may operate the interactive device to guide a userthrough a tour by providing voice-guidance, presenting augmented realitygraphics, operating certain systems, etc. For example, the server 130may operate the interactive device to turn on the lights of specificareas while they are described to the visitor by a voice-over. In someexamples, the owner or property manager may be providing a live tour bycontrolling systems through the server 130 while talking to the visitorthrough the interactive device.

In some examples, the interactive device may collect and transmit datato the server 130. For example, the server 130 may be able to gathervisitor interaction data or visitor location data based on the datareceived from the interactive device. The server 130 may use the visitorinteraction data or visitor location data to determine how long avisitor has been at the property 101, predict the visitor's interest inthe property 101, detect when a user is doing something unsavory (e.g.,eating cookies from the cookie jar, stealing napkin holders, etc.).

The server 130 can collect user feedback through various interfaces,such as the interactive device or the prospective tenant's mobiledevice. For example, after a tour of the property 101, a prospectivetenant, or user, can use the interactive device on-site to indicate thathe is not interested in the property 101 because although it has theright number of bedrooms (e.g., four bedrooms), has a basement, and isin the correct neighborhood (e.g., Happyville), it doesn't have enoughbathrooms (e.g., only two bathrooms).

The server 130 can solicit feedback from the user at any point duringthe tour, for example, by providing survey questions. The server 130 canpresent a questionnaire to the user with questions relevant to thecurrent property 101 and to which the user's answers are stored andanalyzed to determine whether a property that would be a better fit forthe user can be found.

The server 130 can automatically determine when to solicit feedback formthe user. For example, the server 130 can determine when a user is notinterested in the property 101, or shows signs of interest in certainaspects of the property 101 and not others. For example, the server 130can use data from cameras 126 to monitor whether the user is about todepart and present a survey to the user on his phone. In some examples,the server 130 can use data from the cameras to determine that the userlingered in the master bedroom and the backyard, and can tailor surveyquestions to detected interactions.

The server 130 can automatically detect interactions of the user withthe property 101 through, for example, the use of machine learningmodels. The machine learning models may be models which accept sensordata collected by cameras and/or other sensors as inputs. The machinelearning models may use any of a variety of models such as decisiontrees, linear regression models, logistic regression models, neuralnetworks, classifiers, support vector machines, inductive logicprogramming, ensembles of models (e.g., using techniques such asbagging, boosting, random forests, etc.), genetic algorithms, Bayesiannetworks, etc., and can be trained using a variety of approaches, suchas deep learning, perceptrons, association rules, inductive logic,clustering, maximum entropy classification, learning classification,etc. In some examples, the machine learning models may use supervisedlearning. In some examples, the machine learning models use unsupervisedlearning.

The server 130 can provide, for example, video footage from the cameras126 and sensor data from various sensors 122 as input to the machinelearning models to determine whether the user has interacted with theproperty 101 in a way that indicates that he is either interested oruninterested in a particular aspect of the property 101. Thesedeterminations can then be used by the server 130 to generatepersonalized questionnaires for the user to provide a betterproperty-hunting experience.

For example, if a user walks past a room in the property 101 withoutstopping inside to look at the room, the server 130 can determine thatthe user does not like at least one aspect of the room, and can providequestions to the user about the room. If, however, the server 130determines, from the user's answers to the questions, that the userlikes the room, the server 130 can learn from the user's behaviors andadjust the machine learning models to better predict whether theparticular user likes or dislikes a property. The server 130 candetermine and store user preferences in a profile created for the userso that future listings can be identified as possibly being of interestto the user, and can alert the user that there is a property matchinghis criteria.

In some examples, the server 130 can store, in a database, an anonymizedset of data based on prospective tenants' behavior regarding particularfeatures of a property that indicate whether the prospective tenantlikes or dislikes the particular feature. The server 130 can use thisstored data to better predict, using the machine learning models,whether a future prospective tenant touring a particular property 101likes or dislikes certain features of the property 101. The databaseallows the server 130 to select more relevant questions and providebetter suggestions to prospective tenants, and reduces frustration of aprospective tenant that may occur if a realtor does not pick up on theprospective tenant's body language or if the prospective tenant haspreferences for particular aspects of a property that he is unaware of.

The server 130 can provide a questionnaire focused on aspects of theproperty 101 that the user liked and aspects that the user would like tosee changed in the next property the user is shown. If the user agreesto see a different property at the suggestion of the server 130, theserver 130 can tailor subsequent questionnaires to determine whether thechanged parameters of the different property meet the user'sexpectations. For example, the server 130 can ask the user, Tom, whetherhe would like to see a next property with a larger kitchen or with alower monthly fee (e.g., rent, home owners association (HOA) fees,etc.), or what additional amenities the user would like to see.

In some examples, the server 130 can solicit or receive feedbacktelephonically, and the user can provide the feedback directly to aproperty manager of the property 101. For example, the property managercan be alerted that the user has finished his tour of the property 101,and that the user has indicated in his exit survey that he does not wishto rent the property 101. The property manager can then call the user toask about whether the user would be interested in providing feedbackthat is used to find different properties for the user to tour. Feedbackcollected by the property manager can then be used as input to theserver 130, and the server 130 can automatically determine whether thereare other properties managed by the server 130 that satisfy parameterscreated based on the user's feedback.

The server 130 receives input of parameters associated with the currentuser and automatically performs a search for properties that match theinput parameters. The server 130 can access, for example, a database ofproperties and input the parameters to find properties for the user.Continuing the example in which Tom is searching for a rental property,the server 130 can search for homes with four bedrooms, a basement, inHappyville, and with more than two bathrooms. Criteria specified by theuser can be selected, for example, from a database of availablecriteria, or can be entered by the user. Criteria can include, forexample, various characteristics of a property, including propertysquare footage, building square footage, outdoor space (e.g., lawns,pools, gardens, backyards, garages, etc.), room square footage (e.g.,bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, etc.), building characteristics (e.g.,number of windows, size of doors, amount of storage space available,etc.) and other appropriate characteristics.

In examples where the server 130 manages properties for multipleproperty managers, owners, real-estate agents, etc., the server 130 canspecifically perform searches based on the point-of-contact for thecurrent property 101. For example, if the user is being helped by aparticular real-estate agent, the server 130 can perform a search in thereal-estate agent's inventory, instead of the entire inventory of theserver 130, in order to preserve the existing tenant-agent relationship.By showing the prospective tenant properties managed by the same owner,real-estate agent, or property manager, the server 130 allows arelationship to develop, and improves the prospective tenant'sexperience by keeping him with a manager who knows what the prospectivetenant is looking for. In other examples, the server 130 may allow theuser to select whether he would like to only view properties managed bythe same owner, property manager, real-estate agent, etc.

If there are homes that match the search criteria, the server 130 canoffer the homes as suggestions for new properties to tour to theprospective tenant. A match does not have to be an exact match in whichall search criteria are met. A match can include properties that meet athreshold number of criteria or are within a threshold of similarity tothe criteria. For example, a house with four bedrooms, four bathrooms,and a basement, but is five miles outside of Happyville, can still beprovided as a suggestion if a threshold distance is satisfied. In someexamples, the prospective tenant can set some or all of the thresholdsfor the criteria. In other examples, the property manager can set thethresholds, or a default threshold can be used.

The server 130 can provide suggestions to the prospective tenant throughvarious interfaces, including the interactive device or the prospectivetenant's mobile device. For example, the server 130 can text the user alink to a website with selected new properties for the prospectivetenant to tour. The server 130 can, in other examples, show propertysuggestions through the interactive device, send the prospective tenantan email with each listing, or provide the prospective tenant with acustomizable list of data to a specified location, such as a differentphone number that the prospective tenant uses.

By collecting feedback from the prospective tenant while he is still onthe property 101, the server 130 provides real-time service to thetenant and improves property management technology by automating theexperience of helping a prospective tenant find a property he isinterested in renting.

If a prospective tenant decides he wants to see one of the suggestedproperties, the server 130 further automates the process by allowing theprospective tenant to schedule a viewing at that time. For example, if aprospective tenant selects one or more of the suggested propertiesmanaged by the server 130, the prospective tenant can request toschedule a viewing, and the server 130 can automatically vet theprospective tenant using his previously provided information andgenerate an access code specifically for the prospective tenant. Theserver 130 can schedule a viewing appointment and generate an accesscode for each property the prospective tenant is interested in seeing.

By automatically scheduling and generating access codes for aprospective tenant who is still searching, the server 130 improves thesearching experience for a user by reducing delays associated with, forexample, working schedules of property managers. A tenant can schedule aviewing at the time he has indicated he is interested in seeing theproperty, and an access code can be generated at the same time, suchthat he does not have to experience any delays between when he hasdecided to view another property and when he can view it. The server 130provides an improved experience by reducing, or even eliminating, delaysin a prospective tenant's property search, and thus the tenant is morelikely to continue seeing properties for which he is scheduled.

The server 130 may initiate operations based on the access code dataand/or monitoring data such as restricting access to certain areas ofthe property 101, arming alarm systems, etc. For example, electroniclocks may be installed on doors such as a master bedroom closet. Theelectronic locks may be enabled when an access code is detected and avisitor enters the property 101 to prevent the visitor from opening thecloset and rifling through the owner or current tenant's personal items.

When a current tenant is still occupying the property 101, certainoperations of the system 100 may be altered. A tenant could request tochange available showing hours to coincide with when they are home, orwhen they are away. For example, a tenant could request that visitorsonly be let in between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays, when they are nothome. In some examples, a tenant could alter settings and operations ofthe monitor control unit 110. For example, if the tenant has opted toreceive a photo from a camera each time someone arrives at the frontdoor because he wants to make sure his daughter has come home fromschool, the tenant may disable the notifications during showing times.In some examples, the server 130 may determine whether the access codereceived is for a prospective tenant and refrain from sending a photo tothe tenant, while sending other photos taken from people using aphysical key.

In some examples, if the current tenant has requested certain videos tobe saved, or certain actions to trigger notifications or alarms, thesettings may be overridden or altered when prospective tenants aredetected to have entered the property 101. For example, if the currenttenant only uses the back door of the property 101 and has requested anotification every time the front door is used, the notificationsettings may be automatically adjusted. In some examples, the settingsare adjusted by the owner or property manager of the property 101. Forexample, the owner or property manager might enforce more or lessrestrictions on where a visitor can go or what a visitor can do. Theproperty manager might enforce that personal closet doors are locked todeter theft, even if the current tenant has not specified this setting.

In some examples, sensors or other monitoring devices may be installedthroughout the property 101. The sensors may include pressure sensors,motion sensors, light sensors, etc., and may transmit data to themonitor control unit 110 or store collected data locally. The sensordata may be used to monitor the activity of visitors to the property101. For example, the server 130 may determine, from data collected by asensor on the refrigerator door, that the refrigerator door was openedbut never closed. The server 130 may determine which users are insidethe property 101 from the access code data and send a notification tothe users to remember to close the refrigerator door.

In some examples, the server 130 may use a combination of the sensordata and the access code data to determine which particular users are inan area of property 101. For example, there may be five prospectivetenants simultaneously touring the property 101. The server 130 maydetermine from the sensor data (e.g., video, still images, etc.) that aperson is in the master bedroom of the property 101, where they havebeen asked not to go. For example, video data from the cameras 126 maybe used with facial recognition to determine the identity of a visitoror prospective tenant. In some examples motion sensor data from thesensors 122 may be used to track visitors' and/or prospective tenants'movements in or around the property 101. The server 130 may compare thesensor data with the access code data and the user data associated withthe access code to determine that the user is Ronald. The server 130 maysend Ronald a notification informing him that the owner or propertymanager has been notified, and that he should exit the master bedroom.The notification may be delivered through various media, such as textmessage, email, phone call, application notification, etc. In someexamples, the server 130 may simply send Ronald a notification askinghim to leave. The server 130 may set off an alarm immediately upondetection of entry to a forbidden area. In some examples, the server 130may use systems such as an alarm system or a speaker system to interactwith visitors. In some examples, the server 130 may connect a visitorwith the owner or property manager of property 101 upon detecting acondition for which the owner or property manager should be notified.For example, the server 130 may call the visitor and the owner orproperty manager and connect the calls.

When one or more current tenants are still occupying the property 101,the server 130 may determine whether a person performing an action oraccessing an area is a current tenant or a prospective visitor. Forexample, a current tenant may be permitted to access all areas of theproperty 101 and interact with all devices and systems of the property101, while a visitor who performs the same actions or tries to accessthe same areas may set off an alarm or receive a notification requestingthat they cease.

The server 130 may determine, using the monitoring data and the accesscode data, how long a user has been in the property 101. The server 130may analyze such data to predict a user's interest in the property,determine whether a user has been at the property for too long, etc. Theserver 130 may send the visitor a notification informing them that theirreservation period is over. In some examples, the server 130 may turnoff the lights, or initiate the unoccupied profile for the devices andsystems on the property 101 once the last visitor's reservation periodis over. For example, the server 130 may begin to dim the lights on theproperty 101 five minutes after warning a visitor that they are the lastvisitor of the day and that their reservation period is over.

In some examples, the server 130 may notify the owner or propertymanager if a visitor is detected within the property 101 after beingwarned that their time is up. In some examples, the server 130 maypresent the owner or the property manager with options for actions totake. For example, the server 130 may ask the owner or property managerif authorities need to be contacted. In some examples, the server 130may detect predefined conditions and automatically notify theauthorities. For example, if a visitor is setting fire to the house, theserver 130 may automatically alert the police and fire department.

In some examples, a prospective tenant may enter a departure code thatindicates a prospective tenant's interest in the property 101. Forexample, a prospective tenant may input a code of “123” to express thatthey wish to put down a deposit and rent the property 101 immediately.The prospective tenant may input a code to indicate that they are stilllooking, and does not wish to make a commitment at the time. In someexamples, the prospective tenant may input a departure code to indicatethat they are not interested in renting the property 101 at all. Thedeparture codes may be provided to the prospective tenant as optionsread from a list (e.g., “Press 1 to indicate you wish to rent thisproperty. Press 2 to indicate . . . ”). In some examples, the departurecodes may be specific combinations entered into a user interface elementof the electronic lock, such as a keypad. The departure codes may beentered by the user through a web interface, a mobile application, etc.

In some examples, if a visitor has indicated immediate interest inrenting the property 101 and a current tenant is still occupying theproperty 101, the server 130 may prompt the owner or property manager tocontact the current tenant to ask the current tenant whether they wouldlike to end their lease early and be credited an amount for theremainder of their lease. For example, if a current tenant only has twoweeks left of their three year lease and already has a lease signedelsewhere, the server 130 may transmit a communication to the currenttenant asking if they would like to terminate their lease early and becredited for the remainder of their lease. The flexibility granted bythe system 100 may reduce vacancy times of properties and improve therental experience for both the current tenant and the prospectivetenant.

In some examples, a tenant may move out of the property 101 before theend of their lease, but they may not inform the owner or propertymanager. For example, a tenant may forget to inform the owner orproperty manager that their new job in a different state begins threeweeks before the end of their lease. The current tenant may move outdays, weeks, etc. before the end of their lease, making the propertyavailable for re-rental. The server 130 may use the monitoring dataand/or access data to determine that the current tenant has moved out,and has not returned for a predetermined amount of time. The server 130may then contact the owner or property manager to inform them that theproperty is vacant. In some examples, the server 130 may automaticallyflag the property as vacant.

In some examples, the server 130 may access, with permission, thecurrent tenant's schedule data to determine when the current tenant willbe moving out. In some examples, the current tenant may take a vacationbefore moving out. The server 130 may use the schedule data to determinethat, while there has been no activity within the property 101 for twoweeks, the current tenant is returning a week before the end of theirlease to move out. The server 130 would then delay flagging the property101 as vacant.

The system 100 also includes one or more sensors or detectors. Forexample, the monitoring system may include multiple sensors 122. Thesensors 122 may include a contact sensor, a motion sensor, a glass breaksensor, or any other type of sensor included in an alarm system orsecurity system. The sensors 122 also may include an environmentalsensor, such as a temperature sensor, a water sensor, a rain sensor, awind sensor, a light sensor, a smoke detector, a carbon monoxidedetector, an air quality sensor, etc. The sensors 122 further mayinclude a health monitoring sensor, such as a prescription bottle sensorthat monitors taking of prescriptions, a blood pressure sensor, a bloodsugar sensor, a bed mat configured to sense presence of liquid (e.g.,bodily fluids) on the bed mat, etc. In some examples, the sensors 122may include a radio-frequency identification (RFID) sensor thatidentifies a particular article that includes a pre-assigned RFID tag.

The appliances 124 may be home automation devices connected to thenetwork 105 that are configured to exchange electronic communicationswith other devices of the system 100. The appliances 124 may include,for example, connected kitchen appliances, controllable light sources,safety and security devices, energy management devices, and/or othertypes of electronic devices capable of exchanging electroniccommunications over the network 105. In some instances, the appliances124 may periodically transmit information and/or generated data to themonitor control unit 110 such that the monitor control unit 110 canautomatically control the operation of the appliances 124 based on theexchanged communications. For example, the monitor control unit 110 mayoperate one or more of the appliances 124 based on a fixed schedulespecified by the user. In another example, the monitor control unit 110may enable or disable one or more of the appliances 124 based onreceived sensor data from the sensors 122.

The cameras 126 may be video/photographic cameras or other type ofoptical sensing devices configured to capture images. For instance, thecameras 126 may be configured to capture images of an area within abuilding monitored by the monitor control unit 110. The cameras 126 maybe configured to capture single, static images of the area and alsovideo images of the area in which multiple images of the area arecaptured at a relatively high frequency (e.g., thirty images persecond). The cameras 126 may be controlled based on commands receivedfrom the monitor control unit 110.

The cameras 126 may be triggered by several different types oftechniques. For instance, a Passive Infra Red (PIR) motion sensor may bebuilt into the cameras 126 and used to trigger the cameras 126 tocapture one or more images when motion is detected. The cameras 126 alsomay include a microwave motion sensor built into the camera and used totrigger the cameras 126 to capture one or more images when motion isdetected. The cameras 126 may have a “normally open” or “normallyclosed” digital input that can trigger capture of one or more imageswhen external sensors (e.g., the sensors 122, PIR, door/window, etc.)detect motion or other events. In some implementations, the cameras 126receives a command to capture an image when external devices detectmotion or another potential alarm event. The cameras 126 may receive thecommand from the controller or directly from one of the sensors 122.

In some examples, the cameras 126 trigger integrated or externalilluminators (e.g., Infra Red, Z-wave controlled “white” lights, etc.)to improve image quality when the scene is dark. An integrated orseparate light sensor may be used to determine if illumination isdesired and may result in increased image quality.

The cameras 126 may be programmed with any combination of time/dayschedules, system “arming state”, or other variables to determinewhether images should be captured or not when triggers occur. Thecameras 126 may enter a low-power mode when not capturing images. Inthis case, the cameras 126 may wake periodically to check for inboundmessages from the controller. The cameras 126 may be powered byinternal, replaceable batteries if located remotely from the monitorcontrol unit 110. The cameras 126 may employ a small solar cell torecharge the battery when light is available. Alternatively, the cameras126 may be powered by the controller's 112 power supply if the cameras126 is co-located with the controller.

In some implementations, the cameras 126 communicates directly with therental property management server 130 over the Internet. In theseimplementations, image data captured by the cameras 126 does not passthrough the monitor control unit 110 and the cameras 126 receivescommands related to operation from the rental property management server130.

The electronic lock 128 may be an electronic computing device that isplaced on the exterior of the property 101 and configured to capturevideo and image footage of the detectable region 128 a of the property101. In some implementations, the electronic lock 128 can be a connecteddevice placed on the front door of the property 101 that is capable ofreceiving a button press from an individual near the front door (e.g.,the individual 102). In such implementations, the electronic lock 128may be configured to exchange communications with a separate securitycamera that captures footage of the front exterior of the property 101.Alternatively, in other implementations, the electronic lock 128 mayinclude one or more integrated camera devices that are capable ofcapable of collecting footage of the detectable region 128 a. Theintegrated cameras may also be capable of detecting motion within thedetectable region 128 a such that, after initially detecting an actionsuch as an input to the electronic lock 128, the electronic lock 128 cancorrelate a detection event and subsequent motion detected within thedetectable region 128 a in order to identify possible security risks tothe property 101.

In some implementations, the electronic lock 128 may be capable ofperforming one or more response actions to a detected input of anincorrect access code to deter possible intruders. For instance, in someexamples, the electronic lock 128 can include a speaker that plays apre-recorded message to indicate that someone is presently within theproperty 101 even when the property 101 is unoccupied. In otherexamples, the electronic lock 128 may be capable of transmitting signalsto devices within the property 101 (e.g., the sensors 122, theappliances 124, the cameras, 126) in response to detecting an action tosimulate occupancy within the property 101. In other examples, theelectronic lock 128 may also communicate directly with the monitorcontrol unit 110, which can then relay the communication with theelectronic lock 128 to devices within the property over another signalpath using a different communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth,Bluetooth LE, ZWave, ZigBee, etc.).

The rental property management server 130 is an electronic deviceconfigured to provide monitoring services by exchanging electroniccommunications with the monitor control unit 110 and the user device 140over a network. For example, the rental property management server 130may be configured to monitor events (e.g., alarm events) generated bythe monitor control unit 110. In this example, the rental propertymanagement server 130 may exchange electronic communications with thenetwork module included in the monitor control unit 110 to receiveinformation regarding events (e.g., alarm events) detected by themonitor control unit 110. The rental property management server 130 alsomay receive authorization information (e.g., keypad codes, electroniclock codes, etc.) from the user device 140.

The user device 140 may be an electronic device associated a userinterested in the property 101 that exchanges communications over anetwork, such as the Internet or the network 105. For example, the userdevice 140 may be a smartphone, tablet, or other types of networkdevices. The user device 140 may access a service made available by therental property management server 130 on the network 105, such as amobile application. The data generated by the user device 140 may betransmitted over the network 105, and may be monitored by the monitorcontrol unit 110.

In some implementations, the rental property management server 130 mayroute alarm data received from the network module or the user device 140to a central alarm station server that is maintained by a third-partysecurity provider. The alarm data can include captured video footage ofthe detected individual within the detectable region 128 a, which isprocessed by the third-party security provider to request emergencyassistance to the property 101. For example, the alarm data can betransmitted to law enforcement so indicate a potential security breachwithin the property 101. In some instances, the alarm data can alsoinclude metadata identified by the electronic lock 128 within thecaptured video footage (e.g., gender of the individual, suspectedidentity of the individual, key physical attributes, etc.). In theseexamples, the alarm data can either be transmitted to law enforcementafter requesting confirmation from the user, or automaticallytransmitted without intervention from the user.

The rental property management server 130 may store sensor and imagedata received from the monitoring system and perform analysis of sensorand image data received from the monitoring system. Based on theanalysis, the rental property management server 130 may communicate withand control aspects of the monitor control unit 110 or an interactivedevice within the property 101.

The interactive device may be an electronic device associated with aproperty owner or an occupant that exchange network communications overa network, such as the Internet or the network 105. For example, theinteractive device may be a smartphone, tablet, personal computer (PC),network-enabled media player, home entertainment system, cloud storagedevice, and other types of network devices. The interactive device mayaccess a service made available by the rental property management server130 on the network 105, such as a mobile application. The data generatedby the interactive device may be transmitted over the network 105, andmay be monitored by the monitor control unit 110.

The interactive device can include a native surveillance application.The native surveillance application refers to a software/firmwareprogram running on the corresponding mobile device that enables the userinterface and features described throughout. The interactive device mayload or install the native surveillance application based on datareceived over a network (e.g., the network 105) or data received fromlocal media. The native surveillance application runs on mobile devicesplatforms. The native surveillance application also enables theinteractive device to receive and process image and sensor data from themonitoring system.

In some implementations, the interactive device communicate with andreceive monitoring system data from the monitor control unit 110 using acommunication link. For instance, the interactive device may communicatewith the monitor control unit 110 using various local wireless protocolssuch as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zwave, Zigbee, HomePlug (Ethernet overpowerline), or wired protocols such as Ethernet and USB, to connect theinteractive device to local security and automation equipment. Theinteractive device may connect locally to the monitoring system andsensors 122 and other devices. The local connection may improve thespeed of status and control communications because communicating througha network, such as the Internet or the network 105 with a remote server(e.g., the rental property management server 130) may be significantlyslower.

Although the interactive device are shown as communicating with therental property management server 130, the interactive device may alsocommunicate directly with the sensors 122 and other devices controlledby the monitor control unit 110 when the interactive device is near theproperty 101. For example, the interactive device may exchangecommunications with the devices of the system 100 over the network 105.

In some implementations, the interactive device receives monitoringsystem data captured by the monitor control unit 110 through the network105. The interactive device may receive the data from the monitorcontrol unit 110 through the network 105 or the rental propertymanagement server 130 may relay data received from the monitor controlunit 110 to the interactive device through the network 105. In thisregard, the rental property management server 130 may facilitatecommunication between the interactive device and the monitoring system.

In some implementations, the system 100 intelligently leverages themonitor control unit 110 to aid in security monitoring, propertyautomation, and property management. For example, the monitor controlunit 110 may aid in investigating alarm events detected at the property101 by the monitor control unit 110. In this example, the monitorcontrol unit 110 may detect an alarm event (e.g., a fire alarm, an entryinto the property 101 when the system is armed “Stay,” etc.) and, basedon the detected alarm event, control the monitor control unit 110 toattempt to identify persons in the property 101 at the time of the alarmevent. Specifically, the monitor control unit 110 may send a controlcommand that causes the sensors 122 and the cameras 126 to perform acoordinated and automated search for persons in the property 101. Basedon the control command received, each of the cameras 126 captures imagesof the property 101.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 may be assigned todifferent areas of the property 101 where the monitor control unit 110can move in an unobstructed manner. In these examples, the monitorcontrol unit 110 may be assigned to different levels in a property(e.g., an upstairs robotic device and a downstairs robotic device) andeven different rooms or sections that are potentially blocked by doors.The monitor control unit 110 coordinate tracking movement based on theassigned areas. For instance, the monitor control unit 110 determinesareas in a property where an event has been detected (e.g., where motionis sensed, where a door or window is opened, etc.) and only controls therobotic devices assigned to the determined areas to operate. In thisregard, the monitor control unit 110 may use location of usersdetermined using the sensors 122 to control operation of the monitorcontrol unit 110.

In addition, the server 130 may perform energy management for the rentalproperty by controlling the pool heater at the rental property usingtechniques similar to those used by the server 130 in performing energymanagement using the thermostat (e.g., setting a target temperature forthe pool heater and/or turning on and off the pool heater). Forinstance, the server 130 may use prospective tenant reservationinformation (e.g., arrival date-time/departure date-time) and/orelectronic lock event data to turn on the heater a particular number ofhours in advance of a prospective tenant's arrival and to turn off theheater upon prospective tenant departure. The server 130 may maintain a“visitor” or “occupied” operational profile until the last scheduledvisitor is expected to depart. In some examples, the server 130 onlyinitiates an unoccupied operational profile when all visitors aredetermined to be off of the property 101. The particular number of hoursand/or the heater temperature setting may be set by the owner, therental management company, and/or the prospective tenant usingtechniques similar to those described above for establishing energymanagement settings for the thermostat.

By controlling energy usage of the pool heater remotely, the server 130may reduce the need to send employees to remote rental properties toturn off/on pool heaters, which may reduce labor costs, travel expenses,and unnecessary energy expenses that result from human error in failingto turn pool heaters on/off during periods of the property beingunoccupied.

Examples of implementations of the system 100 can use various types ofdata captured devices within the property 101 (e.g., the sensors 122,the appliances 124, the cameras 126, and the electronic lock 128) toperform differential actions based on the present conditions of theproperty 101. In some instances, the rental property management server130 transmits different notifications of a detected input to theelectronic lock 128 based on detecting the identity of the individual102 that presses the electronic lock 128. For example, the rentalproperty management server 130 may transmit a low priority notificationto the interactive device if the individual 102 is determined to be aknown individual (e.g., family member, neighbor, or commonly detectedindividual etc.) whereas the rental property management server 130 maytransmit a high priority notification if the individual 102 isdetermined to be an unknown individual. In some instances, the priorityof the notification can also be based on a classification associatedwith the detected individual 102 (e.g., service personnel, mailcarriers, etc.).

In some instances, the notifications transmitted by the rental propertymanagement server 130 may be based on a security status of the property101 assigned a security system of the property 101. In such instances,the lock action repository 132 can specify a subset of users to transmitnotifications based on the security status of the property 101. Forexample, the rental property management server 130 may transmit anotification to all identified users associated with the property 101 inresponse to the security status indicating a fire, whereas the rentalproperty management server 130 may transmit a notification only toadministrator users in response to the security status indicating abreach within the property 101. In other examples, the rental propertymanagement server 130 may transmit motion-based alerts if the securitystatus of the property 101 is set to an “alarmed” mode.

In some implementations, the rental property management server 130 cantransmit instructions to the monitor control unit 110 to adjust one ormore settings associated with the devices within the property 101. Forinstance, in response to detecting input to the electronic lock 128, themonitor control unit 110 may receive instructions to change the indoortemperature, or operate the appliances 124 on or off. In such instances,the particular instructions received by the monitor control unit 110 canbe varied based on the identity of the detected individual 102. In otherinstances, the particular instructions can also be based on other typesof information associated with the detected individual 102 (e.g., motiondetected within the detectable region 128 a, time difference between adetected input to the electronic lock 128 and opening the front door ofthe property 101, etc.).

In some implementations, where the rental property management server 130transmits notifications to the interactive device, the particularnotification transmitted can be based on the location of the interactivedevice. For example, a notification can be prevented from beingtransmitted if the interactive device is near or with the property 101.In other examples, the rental property management server 130 cantransmit notifications to another remote user if the interactive deviceis located within the property 101.

In some implementations, the rental property management server 130determines the particular action to be performed in response to adetected input to the electronic lock 128 based on monitoring one ormore parameters indicated by the data transmitted from the monitorcontrol unit 110. For instance, as described more particularly withrespect to FIG. 2 , the lock action repository 132 can specify differentactions to be performed based on occupancy information gathered by thedevices within the property 101, information gathered by the electroniclock 128, and/or the security status indicated by a security system ofthe property 101.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a process 200 for enabling unattendedproperty showing. Briefly, the process 200 may include accessingreservation data on a rental property management server (210), detectinga request for an upcoming reservation from a mobile device (220),confirming, in response to detecting the request, the upcomingreservation (230), generating a unique access code (240), transmittingthe access code to the mobile device (250), and transmitting the accesscode to a monitoring system of a property (260).

In more detail, the process 200 may include accessing reservation dataon a rental property management server (210). For example, the system100 may access data from the rental property management server 130indicating reservations made by users. In some examples, the data mayinclude the date and time of the reservation. The data may include thename of the user, the user's contact information, etc. For example, if aprospective tenant, John, has made a reservation and his reservationdata has been stored in the rental property management server 130, thedata may include John's phone number, the time and date he wishes toview a rental property, and which rental property he is interested in.Then, once the system 100 receives a request for an upcomingreservation, the available times can be compared to a time slotindicated in the request and the system 100 can determine whether toconfirm or deny the request for the upcoming reservation.

In some examples, the system 100 may access reservation data thatindicates reservations made by users, and can generate a user interfacefor a client device that showing available times based on thereservation data. As user of the client device can then select anavailable time to tour the property.

The process 200 may include detecting a request for an upcomingreservation from a mobile device (220). For example, the mobile device140 of a user 104 may transmit a request for a reservation to the rentalproperty management server 130. The request for a reservation may bemade for a viewing of a property in the future. In some examples, therequest for a reservation may include information about the user makingthe request. For example, if Amy wants to see 111 Dryden Road onSaturday, May 14, between 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., she may be directedto a web application or website to enter information. Amy may beprompted to enter reservation details, such as the date, time, andproperty. In some examples, Amy may be asked to enter personal detailsrelevant to her search, such as her photo, credit information, abackground check, etc. Amy's information may be used to verify heridentity or screen her eligibility as a prospective tenant. In someimplementations, the server 130 may generate an interface for the user104 to request a reservation where the available time slots for the user104 to make a reservation are based on the accessed reservationindicating that those time slots are available for the user 104 to viewthe property.

The process 200 includes confirming, in response to detecting therequest, the upcoming reservation (230). For instance, once the rentalproperty management server 130 detects the request, the rental propertymanagement server 130 can confirm the request, generating reservationdata associating the mobile device with the property and time slotindicated in the request. Confirming the reservation can includeverifying the user's information and updating reservation data in therental property management server 130 for the property. If, for example,the owner, property manager, or real-estate agent for the property has apolicy limiting the number of prospective tenants who can view theproperty, the rental property management server 130 can track the numberof users with confirmed reservations for the time slot and rejectconfirmations based on whether the policy limit has been reached.

The process 200 may include generating a unique access code (240). Forinstance, rental property management server 130 may generate a uniqueaccess code that grants access to a rental property. The unique accesscode may be in any form, such as an alphanumeric code, an encryptedcode, a gesture, a motion, a sound, etc. In some examples, the uniqueaccess code is unique to each unique request to view a property. Forexample, each time a request is received to view a property, regardlessof the user making the request, a unique access code is generated. Insome examples, the unique access code is unique to the user requestingthe reservation. For example, Tom may request multiple reservations fordifferent properties and one unique access code is generated that isshared for each request made by Tom. In some examples, the unique accesscode is unique to the property the reservation is made for. The uniqueaccess code can be input to a monitoring system of the property in avariety of ways, including over wireless communications, manuallyentered by a user at an electronic lock or keypad, played by the mobiledevice, etc.

The process 200 may include transmitting the unique access code to themobile device (250). For example, the rental property management server130 may transmit the unique access code through a wirelesscommunication, a physical communications link, etc. to the mobile device140. The unique access code may be transmitted to the mobile device 140through various methods, such as text message, email, voicemail, phonecall, etc. In some examples, the user 104 may download the unique accesscode to the mobile device 140 as a data file through the network 105,which may be the Internet. In some examples, the unique access code maybe transferred to the mobile device 140 through a physicalcommunications link, such as through a docking port, a data transfercable, etc. In some examples, the unique access code may be transferredto the mobile device 140 wirelessly, using various communicationsprotocols and technologies such as NFC, WiFi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, Zigbee,etc.

The process 200 may include transmitting the access code to a monitoringsystem of a property (260). For example, the rental property managementserver 130 may transmit the unique access code to the monitor controlunit 110 on the property 101. The unique access code may be transmittedto the monitor control unit 110 through wireless communication, aphysical communications link, etc. For instance, the rental propertymanagement server 130 may communicate directly with the monitor controlunit 110. In some examples, the server 130 may communicate with themonitor control unit 110 through various methods, such as text message,email, voicemail, phone call, etc. In some examples, the user 104 maydownload the unique access code to the monitor control unit 110 as adata file through the network 105, which may be the Internet. In someexamples, the unique access code may be transferred to the mobile device140 through a physical communications link, such as through a dockingport, a data transfer cable, etc. In some examples, the unique accesscode may be transferred to the mobile device 140 wirelessly, usingvarious communications protocols and technologies such as NFC, WiFi,Bluetooth, Z-Wave, Zigbee, etc.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a process 300 for enabling unattendedproperty showing. Briefly, the process 300 may include detecting aninput of an access code at an electronic lock (310), determining thatthe input access code matches the access code received from the rentalproperty management server (320), and performing an action (330).

The process 300 may include detecting input of an access code at anelectronic lock (310). For example, the monitor control unit 110 maydetect an input of an access code at the electronic lock 128. In someexamples, the monitor control unit 110 may receive data associated withthe input of the access code, such as data from various sensors 122 orcameras 126. For example, if an individual near the front door 102 isinputting an access code to the electronic lock 128, the monitor controlunit 110 may receive data including sensor data and camera data thatprovides information about the individual 102, such as a recording oftheir voice, a photo of them, etc.

The process 300 may include determining that the access code receivedthrough input to the electronic lock matches the unique access codereceived from the rental property management server (320). For instance,the monitor control unit 110 may determine that the access code receivedthrough input to the electronic lock 128 matches the unique access codereceived from the rental property management server 130. In someexamples, the monitor control unit 110 may compare the access codes todetermine whether they match; the access codes could be determined to bematching in various ways. There may be a threshold for a match betweenthe codes. In some examples, the codes must be identical to beconsidered a match. In some examples, the access codes may be relatedsuch that one code may be obtained by performing an operation to theother code. The access codes may be considered matching if the one codeis a counterpart to the other code. For example, if a code or unique PINof ‘3481’ is transmitted to a user, the electronic lock 128 could pose aquestion such as “What is the square root of the unique PIN youreceived?” The question posed by the electronic lock 128 could beanswered by the other code, ‘59’, and used as input to the electroniclock 128.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 transmits the accesscodes to be analyzed. For example, the monitor control unit 110 maytransmit the access codes to the server 130. The server 130 maydetermine whether the access codes match. In some examples, the server130 may transmit the access codes to be analyzed. In some examples, themonitor control unit 110 may transmit the access codes to the rentalproperty management server 130 to be analyzed. In some examples, therental property management server 130 may automatically analyze andcompare the access codes to determine whether they match.

The process 300 may include performing an action in response todetermining whether the access code received as input to the electroniclock matches the unique access code received from the rental propertymanagement server (330). For instance, the monitor control unit 110 mayperform an action in response to determining that the access codes matchand perform a different action in response to determining that theaccess codes do not match. In some examples, the monitor control unit110 may perform a different actions in response to determining that theaccess codes match to a certain degree, up to a certain threshold, or ina certain way.

In some examples, the monitor control unit 110 may perform variousactions, such as activating a security system, deactivating a securitysystem, granting a visitor access to the property 101, collecting datafrom cameras 126, collecting data from sensors 122, etc. For example, ifit has been determined that the access codes match, the monitor controlunit 110 may grant an authorized user 104 access to the property 101. Insome examples, if it has been determined that the access codes do notmatch, the monitor control unit 110 may activate a security system andcollect camera data from cameras 126 of the individual near the frontdoor 102 that input the access code that does not match.

FIG. 4 illustrates a diagram of an example interface 400 for unattendedproperty showing. The interface 400 includes a title 402, photo 404,reservation information 406, property address 408, reservation time 410,access code information 412, and access code 414. In some examples, theinterface 400 is used by a prospective tenant for making a reservationto view a property. In some examples, the interface 400 is used by theowner or property manager of the property for which the reservation ismade. The title 402 provides information about the interface 400 andlets a user know what app they are using. For example, a user may beredirected from a website to the interface 400. The interface 400 may bevarious kinds of interfaces. In some examples, the interface 400 may bean application. In some examples, the interface 400 may be a website ora web application.

The photo 404 provides visual information about the user making thereservation. In some examples, the photo 404 may be uploaded by the userwhile using the interface 400. For example a user may be asked by theinterface 400 to provide visual identification. In some examples, theuser may be able to upload a photo through an application on the mobiledevice 140. The user may be able to upload the photo 404 through variousmethods, such as through a personal computer, through a link to a photohosted on the Internet, etc. In some examples, the user may be able toedit or delete the photo 404 by selecting the photo 404. For example,the photo 404 may be a hyperlink to the hosted photo, may redirect theuser to a photo editing interface, etc.

The reservation information 406 provides the user with information abouttheir reservation. In some examples, data such as the property address408 and the reservation time 410 are shown. The reservation information406 may include more information, such as which entrance to use, whichareas are available for viewing, etc. The reservation information 406may include less information, such as only providing the propertyaddress 408. For example, a user may be able to make a reservation forthe entire day if they are unsure of their schedule; the reservationinformation 406 would then only show the address, or may show thereservation time as a date.

In some examples, the property address 408 and the reservation time 410are displayed in a visually different way from the rest of thereservation information 406. For example, the property address 408 andthe reservation time 410 may be displayed in a different font, bolded,italicized, different font size, different color, etc. In some examplesthe user is able to select the visually different elements of thereservation information 406. Selecting elements of the reservationinformation 406 may perform an action dependent on the selection. Forexample, a user may be able to select the property address 408 to make achange to the reservation or select the reservation time 410 to beredirected to an interface to make a change to the time of thereservation. All, some, or no elements of the reservation information406 may be selectable or changeable.

The access code information 412 provides the user with information aboutthe unique access code 414. For instance, the access code information412 may provide the user with information about the access code 414 andhow to use it. In some examples, the access code information 412 mayinclude only the access code 414. In some examples, the access codeinformation 412 may include more information than the access code 414.The access code 414 may be various kinds of codes, such as a PIN, analphanumeric code, an audio file, a video file, a gesture, a photo, etc.

In some examples, the access code 414 is displayed in a visuallydifferent way from the rest of the access code information 414. Forexample, the access code 414 may be displayed in a different font,bolded, italicized, different font size, different color, etc. In someexamples the user is able to select the access code 414. Selectingelements of the reservation information 406 may perform an actiondependent on the selection. A user may be able to select the access code414 to have the mobile device 140 use the access code to grant the useraccess to the property. For example, Ryan may select the access code 414to have the mobile device 140 transmit the access code to the electroniclock 128. In some examples, the user may enter the access code 414 asshown into the electronic lock 128.

FIG. 5 illustrates a diagram of an example interface 500 for unattendedproperty showing. The interface 500 includes a title 402, photo 404,prospective tenant name 502, reservation information 504, prospectivetenant temporal data 506, events during the prospective tenant's visit508, and flagged events 510. The interface 500 may be used by an owneror property manager of the property being shown. For example, theinterface may be used by an owner or property manager of the property101. The details shown by the interface 500 may relate to a prospectivetenant, such as the individual near the front door 102 or the authorizeduser 104.

The prospective tenant name 502 may provide the user with the name ofthe person shown in the photo 404. In some examples, the prospectivetenant name 502 may be selectable to view further details about theprospective tenant, such as a verified credit history, background checkresults, etc. In some examples, the interface 500 may include more ordifferent prospective tenant information without requiring the user tonavigate to a different interface.

The reservation information 504 may provide the user with informationabout the reservation made and the property viewed by the prospectivetenant. For example, the address of a property, such as property 101,may be displayed. The date and time of the reservation may also bedisplayed. In some examples, all, some, or no elements of thereservation information 504 may be selectable to view more informationabout the elements. For example, a user may be able to select theproperty name or address to view details about the property, such as thesquare footage, number of rooms, etc. In some examples, the user may beable to select the date and/or time of the reservation to view detailsabout that particular time. For example, the user may be able to selectthe reservation time period associated with the prospective tenant'svisit and see details such as what other prospective tenants or peoplewere at the property at the same time.

The prospective tenant temporal data 506 may provide the user withinformation about the time during which the prospective tenant was atthe property 101. In some examples, the data 506 is determined from theprospective tenant's interactions with the electronic lock 128. In someexamples, the data 506 is verified using data from other elements of thesystem 100, such as the sensors 122, the appliances 124, the cameras126, and the server 130. For example, if Gary input the access code tothe electronic lock 128 but left immediately after seeing the size ofthe kitchen without checking out with the electronic lock 128, thedeparture time may be determined using video data from the cameras 126,door sensor data from the sensors 122, etc.

The events during the prospective tenant's visit 508 may provide theuser with information about the events that occurred while theprospective tenant was in the property. For example, elements of thesystem 100 may determine events for the property 101. Data from elementsof the system 100 such as the sensors 122, the appliances 124, thecameras 126, and/or the server 130 may be used to detect events. Forexample, events such as doors opening or lights being turned on may bedetected using the sensors 122. Events such as having an item removedfrom the refrigerator may be detected using the sensors 122, theappliances 124, such as the refrigerator itself, the cameras 126, etc.

In some examples, if more than one prospective tenant is visiting theproperty 101 at the same time, the elements of the system 100 may beable to detect which of the prospective tenants is associated with whichevents. For example, a television on event may be detected by theappliance 124 itself, but the event may be attributed to Kelly based onvideo data from the cameras 126. The prospective tenants with which theevents are associated may be determined using various methods, such asGPS location, server 130 interaction, etc.

The flagged events 510 may highlight events of the events during theprospective tenant's visit 508. For example, events determined to beabnormal may be displayed in a visually different way. Events may bedetermined to be abnormal if they are events the owner or propertymanager does not wish to happen. For example, an item being removed fromthe refrigerator may be an abnormal event that is flagged. Events may beautomatically determined to be abnormal by the system 100. For example,if an event such as a television on event has never occurred within theproperty 101 or any of the properties managed by an owner or propertymanager, the system 100 may determine the television on event to beabnormal and flag the event.

The interface 500 may further show information such as whether theprospective tenant indicated an interest in renting or buying theproperty. For example, if Ann decides that she wants to rent property101, 1425 Otter Run, right after she views it, she may interact with theelectronic lock 128 or another element of the system 100 to indicate herinterest. This interest may be displayed within the interface 500. Insome examples, the prospective tenant may provide no such indication, ormay indicate negative interest. In some examples, these interests may belisted as an event in the list of events 508. In some examples, theseinterests may be indicated as separate elements of the interface 500.

In some examples, the owner or property manager of the property 101 maybe able to select the element indicating the prospective tenant'sinterests, positive or negative, and perform an action. For example, theproperty manager may be able to approve the application of theprospective tenant if they have indicated positive interest and theyhave provided the necessary information. The property manager may beable to contact the prospective tenant through their provided contactinformation (if they have given permission to be contacted for suchreasons) to ask for feedback and answer any questions the prospectivetenant may have.

In some examples, the interface 500 may provide an alert to a remoteuser in real time. Alerts may be provided for flagged or abnormal events510. Alert may indicate information such as occupancy information,electronic lock information, security footage, and response options. Insome examples, the alert can be transmitted to the user device of anowner or property manager of the property.

For instance, after receiving the data from the electronic lock 128, themonitor control unit 110 may receive data gathered by the sensors 122,the appliances 124, and the cameras 126. The received data can include,for example, sensor data indicating occupancy information inside theproperty 101 at the time of the interaction with the electronic lock 128(e.g., the number and identity of occupants within the property 101). Insome implementations, the monitor control unit 110 aggregates thereceived data from the sensors 122, the appliances 124, and the cameras126 based on using pattern recognition techniques in order tointelligently determine subsets of the received information to transmitto the rental property management server 130.

In an example, the alert may be transmitted as a text alert thatindicates data gathered the devices within the property 101 (e.g., thesensors 122, the appliances 124, and the cameras 126) and aggregated bythe monitor control unit 110. For instance, the electronic lock 128 maydetermine that motion detected within the detectable region 128 a issuspicious movement based on analyzing information associated with themotion detected (e.g., time of detection, time period after theinitially detecting input to the electronic lock 128, number of inputsto the electronic lock 128, types of motion detect, etc.). In addition,as described previously, the occupancy information can be used todetermine the types of users that are inside the property 101 (e.g.,children, adults, etc.).

Other arrangements and distribution of processing is possible andcontemplated within the present disclosure.

The described systems, methods, and techniques may be implemented indigital electronic circuitry, computer hardware, firmware, software, orin combinations of these elements. Apparatus implementing thesetechniques may include appropriate input and output devices, a computerprocessor, and a computer program product tangibly embodied in amachine-readable storage device for execution by a programmableprocessor. A process implementing these techniques may be performed by aprogrammable processor executing a program of instructions to performdesired functions by operating on input data and generating appropriateoutput. The techniques may be implemented in one or more computerprograms that are executable on a programmable system including at leastone programmable processor coupled to receive data and instructionsfrom, and to transmit data and instructions to, a data storage system,at least one input device, and at least one output device. Each computerprogram may be implemented in a high-level procedural or object-orientedprogramming language, or in assembly or machine language if desired; andin any case, the language may be a compiled or interpreted language.Suitable processors include, by way of example, both general and specialpurpose microprocessors. Generally, a processor will receiveinstructions and data from a read-only memory and/or a random accessmemory. Storage devices suitable for tangibly embodying computer programinstructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory,including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, such asErasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically ErasableProgrammable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), and flash memory devices;magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks;magneto-optical disks; and Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM). Anyof the foregoing may be supplemented by, or incorporated in, speciallydesigned application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

It will be understood that various modifications may be made. Forexample, other useful implementations could be achieved if steps of thedisclosed techniques were performed in a different order and/or ifcomponents in the disclosed systems were combined in a different mannerand/or replaced or supplemented by other components. Accordingly, otherimplementations are within the scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: receiving, by a server and from a mobile device, a request for an unattended showing of a property by a user; determining, by the server, to schedule the unattended showing of the property by the user; based on determining, by the server, to schedule the unattended showing of the property by the user, providing, by the server, an access code to the mobile device in response to the request for the unattended showing of the property; receiving, by the server, an indication that a representation of the access code was received from the user by an electronic locking mechanism at the property; and based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information and locking a portion of the property.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information comprises: initiating, by the server, a guided tour of the property.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, locking the portion of the property comprises: based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, locking a closet.
 4. The method of claim 1, comprising: determining that the user has departed the property; and based on determining that the user has departed the property, unlocking the portion of the property.
 5. The method of claim 1, comprising: determining that the user has stayed at the property past a time reserved for the unattended showing, wherein the unattended showing represents the user viewing the property unaccompanied by an owner of the property; and based on determining that the user has stayed at the property past a time reserved for the unattended showing, providing, by the server, notification that the user has stayed at the property past the time reserved for the unattended showing.
 6. The method of claim 1, comprising: determining that the user is approaching an end of a time reserved for the unattended showing; and based on determining that the user is approaching the end of the time reserved for the unattended showing, providing, by the server, notification that the user is approaching the end of the time reserved for the unattended showing.
 7. A system comprising: one or more computers and one or more storage devices storing instructions that are operable, when executed by the one or more computers, to cause the one or more computers to perform operations comprising: receiving, by a server and from a mobile device, a request for an unattended showing of a property by a user; determining, by the server, to schedule the unattended showing of the property by the user; based on determining, by the server, to schedule the unattended showing of the property by the user, providing, by the server, an access code to the mobile device in response to the request for the unattended showing of the property; receiving, by the server, an indication that a representation of the access code was received from the user by an electronic locking mechanism at the property; and based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information and locking a portion of the property.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information comprises: initiating, by the server, a guided tour of the property.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information comprises: triggering, by the server, an audible personalized greeting to the user.
 10. The system of claim 7, wherein based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, locking the portion of the property comprises: based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, locking a closet.
 11. The system of claim 7, the operations comprising: determining that the user has departed the property; and based on determining that the user has departed the property, unlocking the portion of the property.
 12. The system of claim 7, the operations comprising: determining that the user has stayed at the property past a time reserved for the unattended showing, wherein the unattended showing represents the user viewing the property unaccompanied by an owner of the property; and based on determining that the user has stayed at the property past a time reserved for the unattended showing, providing, by the server, notification that the user has stayed at the property past the time reserved for the unattended showing.
 13. The system of claim 7, the operations comprising: determining that the user is approaching an end of a time reserved for the unattended showing; and based on determining that the user is approaching the end of the time reserved for the unattended showing, providing, by the server, notification that the user is approaching the end of the time reserved for the unattended showing.
 14. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing software comprising instructions executable by one or more computers which, upon such execution, cause the one or more computers to perform operations comprising: receiving, by a server and from a mobile device, a request for an unattended showing of a property by a user; determining, by the server, to schedule the unattended showing of the property by the user; based on determining, by the server, to schedule the unattended showing of the property by the user, providing, by the server, an access code to the mobile device in response to the request for the unattended showing of the property; receiving, by the server, an indication that a representation of the access code was received from the user by an electronic locking mechanism at the property; and based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information and locking a portion of the property.
 15. The medium of claim 14, wherein based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, providing, by the server, guided tour information comprises: initiating, by the server, a guided tour of the property.
 16. The medium of claim 14, the operations comprising based on receiving the indication that the representation of the access code was received from the user by the electronic locking mechanism at the property, locking a portion of the property. 